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Originally Posted by gracielove  This thing called small dog syndrome is really about just what you pointed out. The dog has to feel secure in the fact that you are in charge and that they are the ones who listen for your signals no matter how they are put forth. It does take repetition and a true effort to make them understand but it works. I would be just as miserable as the dog if I had to continually discipline my pet. This issue has nothing to do with letting your dog sit on your couch or sleep in the bed. |
Oh, absolutely. Where the dog is isn't the big problem - it's how the dog perceives you and whether or not they respect your authority. If you don't project authority, only the most naturally calm, submissive dog will behave for you and all the rest will think they are running the show and begin to act possessive, resource guard anything they consider theirs, "allow" you in certain places or not, nip, bite, bark at everything, pee/poop anywhere they choose in the home and generally misbehave. I long ago learned that dogs that generally misbehave around their owners tend to act destructively as adults when left alone, too. Sure does pay off to have an obedient pet since living with them is so easy. No pee/poop everywhere - they only "go" outside and you never come home to chewed furniture and shredded books, shredded toilet paper, torn up reading glasses or clothing or messy dog pens or crates to clean up. The dog can live out free in the home and remain calm and rest while you are gone and has no desire or thought to chew or bark crazily. It's the only way to have a pet and fully enjoy him!